6 Things You Can't-Miss at the 97th Annual Lake County Fair

By: Sam Ornig 07/17/2026

The scent of funnel cakes in the air signals that the 97th Annual Lake County Fair is almost here! This year's theme is "Bursting with Fun," and the fair promises a week of family friendly excitement at the Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center. Conveniently located on Illinois Route 83, it's a perfect addition to your Lake County road trip. The fair runs from July 29-August 2, 2026, so don’t miss out.

Check out the top six must-see activities at the 97th Annual Lake County Fair as the event draws near. Consider extending your visit by staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Libertyville-Mundelein, Comfort Inn & Suites Mundelein-Vernon Hills and Woodspring Suites Libertville.

Plan your summer in Lake County with our Road Trips itineraries and visit our Summer Outdoor Guide. 

Pro Bull Riding and livestock events

Prepare for a pulse-pounding spectacle as you witness the bravest cowboys face off against some of the meanest raging bulls at the Pro Bull Riding and Barrel Racing event on Sunday, August 2. Beginning at 3 p.m., watch as man takes on beast in this ultimate rodeo challenge. This annual attraction brings spectactors back each year to observe the unrivaled courage, grit and tenacity it takes to jump on the back of a bucking bull. As always, there are a number of livestock events to view, as cattle, swine, sheep and goats are featured in a series of 4-H, junior and open shows beginning Wednesday, July 29. Barns are open daily at 8 a.m. Special events include the Swine Jackpot Show on Friday morning, the Goat Milking demos on Saturday and the always-creative Livestock Costume Contest on Thursday evening. Saturday’s events also include the annual Livestock Auction, with registration starting at noon and bidding kicking off at 2 p.m. For a twist of fun and friendly chaos, the Crazy Cow Relay Race will take place Friday. 

Pro Bull Riding and Barrel Racing takes place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, August 2. Livestock shows take place Wednesday-Saturday at various times. Crazy Cow Relay Race begins at 4 p.m. on Friday, July 31. Livestock Costume Contest starts on Thursday, July 30 at 5:30 p.m.

Demo Derbies, Motocross and Monster Truck Show

Get ready for high-octane excitement with a lineup of action-packed events, with motocross, monster trucks and the Demolition Derby revving up the arena all week long. Immerse yourself in the roaring engines starting at 6 p.m. Wednesday as the Demoliton Derby promises vehicular destruction and heart-pounding adrenaline. Thrill seekers will enjoy the treacherous obstacles and jaw-dropping stunts performed by motocross riders at 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday. And of course, you don't want to miss the Monster Truck Throwdown, with ground-shaking, gravity-defying and daring feats happening at 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday (pre-show pit party begins at 5 p.m.). 

Demolition Derby is at 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 29. Motocross occurs at 7 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday July 29-30. The Monster Truck Throwdown is Thursday-Saturday July 30-August 1; pit party begins at 5 p.m. and monster truck show begins at 7 p.m.

Timberworks Lumberjack Show and The Canine Stars Stunt Show

The Lake County Fair delivers family-friendly thrills with two thrilling shows that celebrate skill, strength and heart. The Timberworks Lumberjack Show brings high-energy competition to the fairgrounds in Grayslake, featuring axe throwing, logrolling and tree climbing as professional lumberjacks demonstrate raw power and time-honored timber skills. Throughout the fair, guests can catch The Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show, a crowd favorite seen on "America's Got Talent," where talented rescue dogs perform high-flying feats in freestyle disc, agility racing, dock diving and more. With inspiring adoption stories and athletic stunts, The Canine Stars capture the hearts of all ages. Whether you're cheering on the lumberjacks or falling for a four-legged performer, these events promise unforgettable moments at the 97th annual Lake County Fair.

Timberworks Lumberjack Show: 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 29. The Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show: 2 p.m., Wednesday, July 29. 

Live Music

Live music takes center stage at the Lake County Fair, offering a dynamic soundtrack to summer fun with performances spanning multiple genres and showcasing both local talent and regional acts. From country and classic rock to pop hits and tribute bands, the fair’s music lineup delivers something for every taste. Concerts are held throughout the week on various stages. Continue scrolling to get a taste of who's gracing the Grayslake stage:

• Roger That (July 29) INFO»
• Abby Kay Band (July 29) INFO»
• Chapel Hill Band (July 30) INFO»
• Hi Infidelity (July 30) INFO»
• The Noize (July 30) INFO»
• Nashville Electric Company (July 30) INFO»
• 90s Pop Nation (July 31) INFO»
• The Dixon Bandits (July 31) INFO»
• Wild Daisy (July 31) INFO»
• Peter and the Versatiles (July 31) INFO»
• American English (August 1) INFO»
• School of Rock (August 1) INFO»
• Big Boss and the Toes (August 1) INFO»
• Red Panda Band (August 1) INFO»
• Whiskey Road (August 1) INFO»
• Donnie Lee Strickland (August 1-2) INFO»
• 7th Heaven (August 2) INFO»
• The Last Bees (August 2) INFO»
• Chicago Latin Groove (August 2) INFO»
• Blue Marlin (August 2) INFO»

Midway Carnival Rides and Games

The Lake County Fair’s Midway brings bright lights, big thrills and classic carnival fun for all ages, with rides and games operated by Skinner's Amusements. Open daily starting at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29, the Midway features everything from high-flying attractions to kid-friendly favorites, plus an array of traditional games that challenge your aim and luck. Tickets are $1 each and available at booths throughout the fairgrounds, with each ride requiring a varying number of tickets. For those looking to maximize the fun, all-you-can-ride wristbands are available during select hours Wednesday through Friday for $30, offering unlimited access to the excitement. The Midway opens at noon Thursday through Sunday and closes as late as 11 p.m. on peak nights. Whether you're chasing thrills, spinning through the sky or trying to win a giant stuffed animal, the Midway is a can’t-miss part of the fair experience.

Unique Fair Fare

The Lake County Fair isn't just about rides and shows—it's a paradise for your taste buds. The air is thick with the enticing aromas of classic fairground treats, from sweet funnel cakes and savory foot-long corn dogs to tempting popcorn and candy apples. But that's just the start. Head over to Food Truck Alley for an even wider array of unique and delicious eats, showcasing a variety of mouth-watering options like:

• Corn Dogs
• Corn on the Cobb
• Cotton Candy
• Bucket of Fries
• Cheese Curds
• Funnel Cake
• Deep Fried Oreos
• Mini Donuts
• and more...

BONUS: Don't Miss These Highlights at the 97th Annual Lake County Fair 

Beyond the main attractions, the Lake County Fair offers a huge variety of experiences for everyone. Here are some of the top things you won't want to miss:

• Flower Hour (Sensory Friendly)
• Interactive Bubble Zone
• Beer Garden
• Miss, Junior Miss and Little Miss Lake County Fair Queen Pageants
• Kidbucks Game Show
• Show Me Swine Pig Races
• K9 Demonstrations by Lake County Sheriff’s Office
• Face Painting by Audra
• John Measner Magic Show
• Beekeeper Demonstration
• Glass Blowing Demonstration
• Friendship Bracelet Making Party
• The Strolling DJ
• Beer Tent Bingo
• Fermentable Food Class